Urinary Tract Health- Cranberry & D-Mannose

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) - we've all heard of the discomfort associated with this common health issue and many people are unfortunate enough to understand the symptoms personally, since they have experienced it themselves!

Painful urination, burning, tenderness and dull aches are common symptoms, and may also be accompanied by chills, fever, lower back pain and nausea. Symptoms can vary depending upon the severity of the infection and the strength of the individual's immune system. The American Journal Of Obstetrics and Gynecology reports that the incidence of UTIs increases after menopause, probably due to estrogen depletion, bladder or uterine prolapse, and the increased use of pharmaceutical drugs.

Men can also fall victim to UTI's and experience many of the same symptoms. Several organisms may be implicated in the development of UTIs, including e.coli (80 %), proteus, klebsiella, enterobacter, pseudomonas, serratia and others. It is possible for other kinds of organisms to also be involved such as parasites (echinococcus), protozoa (trichomonas) and yeasts (candida albicans).

Under normal conditions, a thin film of urine normally remains in the bladder after urination. Any bacteria are removed by organic acids produced by the mucosal lining of the bladder. If there is any kind of interference in this mechanism, which may be due to infections, stress, or holding urine too long, a urinary tract infection can result. There are two general types of UTIs: Lower UTIs in the bladder and urethra and Upper UTI which effects the ureters and the kidneys.

One of the goals of treatment is to stop the progression of infection from the lower to the upper areas. While doctors jump to prescribe antibiotics, these drugs can cause adverse effects, including a secondary yeast infection, as well as repeated urinary tract infections due to the development of resistant strains of bacteria. In a severe infection, antibiotics may be necessary to avoid the more serious condition of a kidney infection. Always speak to your physician for guidance for all health problems.

There are many lifestyle chooses that can help avoid getting a urinary tract infection. Here are a few: don't hold urine in; go to the bathroom as soon as you feel an urge to go; use toilet paper from front to back; wash hands before leaving a bathroom because e.coli contaminate bathroom fixtures; avoid irritating the area with highly perfumed bath products and toilet paper; wear loose cotton underwear; use of spermacides and lubricants can increase the risk of UTIs.

Exercise can keep the pelvic floor muscles toned, which increases circulation and improves lymphatic flow. This also helps to deter the development of prolapsed bladder. Kegel exercises improve the tone of the muscular sling and prevents bladder prolapse and urethral obstruction. To perform the kegel exercise, attempt to stop the urine stream and isolate the muscle that allows you to do this. Then concentrate on doing the kegel several times a day while sitting or standing. In many cases, natural therapies can ease symptoms.

One of the best places to start is with the well-known urinary-healthy fruit-Cranberry. Studies have proven that cranberry is quite effective in preventing bacteria from adhering to mucous membranes. Cranberry's efficacy was touted in the widely respected Cochrane Database in Jan. 2008 in a study called "Cranberries for preventing urinary tract infections." This action has both preventative and therapeutic benefits for urinary tract infections. Both the natural fructose found in cranberry and specific proanthocyanadins have been shown to block the bacteria from being able to wrap appendages around the edges of the lining of the bladder. Its best to use pure cranberry capsules, or UNSWEETENED cranberry juice. Commercial cranberry juice with lots of sugar, or, worse yet, "sugar free" cranberry juice with artificial sweeteners is NOT the kind to use to help a UTI!

Another well-studied supplement that is helpful for urinary tract infections is an isolated active ingredient call D-mannose. D-mannose has a slightly different mechanism of action than whole cranberry. D-Mannose acts as a 'decoy sugar' and attracts micro-organisms away from the bladder lining. Together, D-Mannose and Cranberry can work together as a dynamic duo, supporting urinary tract wellness. It's important to use the right amount of DMannose. If you are selecting a product, read the milligram amounts in the supplement fact box. Many studies have focused on the use of 4000 mg-5000 mg per dose for best results. However, many products offer only 250-1000 mg per dose, which may not be enough to be effective.

In addition to Cranberry and D-Mannose, other herbs have been used traditionally in societies around to world to help with UTIs. These include Oregon Grape Root, Couch grass, Juniper berries, Golden Seal and Uva Ursi. Garlic, Hawthorne and Parsley can also be supportive in re-establishing urinary

Ellen Kamhi PhD RN, The Natural Nurse(r), can be heard on radio daily. She is the author of several books, including THE NATURAL MEDICINE CHEST. Dr. Kamhi has been involved in natural health care for over 4 decades. She answers consumer questions at www.naturesanswer.com, and has a private practice on Long Island. Visit www.naturalnurse.com or call 800-829-0918